Browse Worthy: Abuse in the Church

The Apostle Peter said, "For it is time for judgment to begin at the household of God; and if it begins with us, what will be the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God?" (1 Peter 4:17) As our culture awakens to the problem of sexual abuse, surely the church will be held to even greater account by her Lord. Signs of his judgment have already been seen, as recent years have shown one evangelical leader after another falling because of these sins. As you read the following articles, pray that the Lord would purify and revive His church.

My Larry Nassar Testimony Went Viral. But There’s More to the Gospel Than Forgiveness. | Morgan Lee Interview of Rachael Denhollander

After her powerful, Christ-honoring testimony in a courtroom (you can see it here) regarding the sexual abuse she endured as a gymnast by doctor Larry Nassar, who was accused and convicted of abusing scores of girls and women, Rachael Denhollander spoke to _Christianity Today _of the problem of abuse and its cover-up in the church. Clearly as a lawyer, advocate for the hurting, and lover of Christ and His church, Rachael is determined to see the church exercise justice as well as mercy to purify itself from these type of sins.

It Began With Rachael Denhollander And It Ends With Her | Dvora Meyers

For further context, read this article to hear how she courageously took on her abuser and brought on his downfall.

Why do Churches cover up sin? | David Murray

If I counted correctly, David offers up twenty helpful reasons in answer to this question. This list, with brief explanations for each reason, underscores why each case of abuse must be handled individually, carefully, and thoroughly until righteousness is established.

Sovereign Grace Disputes Rachael Denhollander’s Remarks | Kate Shellnut

Denhollander's _Christianity Today _interview specifically mentioned Sovereign Grace Ministries (SGM) and former president C.J. Mahaney as an example of churches covering up abuse (note that the Denhollander family belonged to a SGM congregation at one point). In response, the executive director of this ministry, which is now called Sovereign Grace Churches (SGC) issued a statement denying her claims.

Public Response to Sovereign Grace Churches | Rachael Denhollander

Denhollander in turn issued her own statement. She points out that SGC's claim they were cleared in court was a legal technicality, not a proof of innocence. She also is requesting that they allow GRACE, a Christian ministry committed to assisting evangelical groups in confronting sexual abuse in a godly way, conduct a private investigation of their organization.